Tuesday, February 23, 2010

18th c Venetian Woman Makes History...

You can say that I was inspired by reading THE SECRET OF THE GLASS, Inspired by Venice, and finally VERY inspired by what’s going on in the world of sports…THE OLYMPICS!

So, I thought I’d write a post about a pretty remarkable Venetian sportswoman…

Maria Boscola da Marina

This lady, born in 18th century Chioggia- part of the Venetian lagoon, was something short of extraordinary for those days. Have you ever heard of the Regata? It's one of the most impressive boat (gondola) races ever seen.

The Regata started around the 14th century as official races for honorary events (example; to celebrate a new Doge, or for royal visits…that type of thing). Along the centuries it did become a lot more extravagant- quite the event not to be missed. Nowadays, in September, all of Venice attends the spectacular feast for the eyes, where tourists make it a point to visit specifically to revel in the historical event happening amidst the waters of La Serenissima.

The point to stress here is that although there was much repression in the early centuries, in Venice, this has never stopped bold, smart, strong and determined women to hold their own. We’ve seen this in art, music, business and even in the art of love (ahhh those famous courtesans…)-but a Venetian woman making it in sports as well?

Maria Boscola, in her everyday normal life, would tend to her family, grow her vegetables and make her weekly, or daily visit to the market to sell her produce. That was not the only reason she typically ‘hung’ around the lagoon…

Maria Boscola was the fantastic and unsurpassed female rowing champion of the 18th c!! She was a champion of the Regata for over 40 years! Renowned and famous all right! There’s even a painting of her at the Museo Corer of Venice. Yet, although much was written about her in newspapers back then, including that she was the pride and joy of Venice…sadly, global research on this great athlete is rather meek. Considering the hardships and insurmountable feats she must have had to go through just to be part of this event (she apparently had a large family of 5 or 6 children to raise…) it's more than just remarkable.

To celebrate the Olympics, Venice, and women of substance, I wanted to pay tribute to one outstanding Venetian lady who made her mark against all odds in a time and place where women hardly ever stood a chance.

Wow that is so awesome about Maria.And a wonderful theme for you to tie all together as well. How beautiful that last picture is, I can understand why you you adore Venice, it looks so romantic and inviting.Thanks for this blas from the unknown past, another wonderful thing learned from Lucy!

Fame is such a hard thing. Whoever controls the records, controls who will be remembered and how. It makes you wonder how many women and men who deserved to be recognized are lost to us. Thank you so much for bringing Maria's accomplishments to our attention. It is incredible that she was able to dominate the Regata for 40 years. Who of our current Olympic champions will ever be able to claim that.

You know, the more I learn about history, the more I realize that not every single woman in previous centuries was oppressed and tied down to the house. There were lots of women out there doing amazing things. And plenty of them were even very powerful, politically speaking.

I enjoyed hearing about this 18th century champion athlete. And the boats are gorgeous!

Hi Rheanna, I'm like that too- I love learning about these strong women of the past. Thanks:)

Hi Librarypat:) I too was amazed at her being able to carrry this through for so long. And- you're not kidding about that control thing..still in vogue today.. Thanks:)

Hey Christine! I think about many historical women being quite the challenging types- I love that. so much submission though and it was so much easier to shut them out - or down. It really is amazing that they got to make history considering all that control.

About the baby fat- that's so true! But if you look carefully at her structure and arms, she looks very strong and athletic, don't you find?

Great post topic, Lucy! I really enjoyed reading about Maria's triumphs. Especially after reading a novel where gender roles was a central theme! Love how you've posted this during the Olympics, and related it back to our event. Brilliant! :)